Mosquito Coils
Mosquito coils are a cheap, convenient way of getting rid of mosquitoes, midges, gnats and other biting insects. They are designed for use outdoors, and when burned, release an insect repellent smoke into the surrounding area.
How Mosquito Coils Work
Mosquito coils are burned on specially designed metal stands, or placed inside more attractive-looking mosquito coil holders which contain holes to let the smoke out. The holders can usually be hung up or laid flat.
Each mosquito coil slowly burns for around 8 hours, during which time repelling active ingredients such as pyrethroids or pyrethrum disperse with the smoke.
The combination of ingredients in the smoke coil either prevents mosquitoes from entering the surrounding area, encourages them to leave the area if they have not already done so, or knocks the insects down and kills them.
Lifesystems Smoke Coils release insecticides when they are burned, and citronella incense coils emit citronella, a plant-based, non-toxic, natural insect repellent.
How to Use Mosquito Coils
Mosquito coils are particularly useful for protection against mosquitoes when sitting outside at night. They can be placed on a table so people can congregate around them. It helps to stay in the vicinity of the smoke given off, but this may be difficult if the smoke is carried away by the wind.
A good tip is to place a mosquito coil down on the ground by people's ankles and feet, as this is an area mosquitoes seem to bite frequently. Again, the less wind there is, the more likely the mosquito smoke will have a chance to be effective.
Mosquito coils are generally meant for use outdoors, but if they do have to be used indoors, it is wise to make sure rooms are well ventilated.
Packs of multiple mosquito coils are available, with a coil stand included.